"He didn't lose the pocket-book; it was stolen; he is sure of that; and as for the trunk, it was sent by a local expressman to the steamboat, and so far has not been traced."
"A very clever story," Linda went on. "I am only surprised that you didn't offer to take him in here until the missing articles are found."
"I did think of it," returned Miss Ri with a twinkle in her eye, "and if you hadn't been coming, I might have done it; but I was afraid he might prove too susceptible or that—"
"I might," returned Linda, laughing. "You certainly are considerate, Miss Ri. Where is our paragon, now?"
"Oh, I sent him to Parthy Turner's, and they are both having a mighty nice time of it. She has turned him over to Berk Matthews, and he is doing what he can for him."
"And do you believe there really was a great-grandfather?"
"Oh, dear, yes; I am convinced of it. The young man has shown us his credentials, and I have no doubt but that in time he can find enough proof to substantiate what he has told us about his claim. If only the trunk could be found, he says he thinks it would be a very simple thing to establish his rights."
"And am I not to see this mysterious stranger? I suppose he comes here sometimes to report."
"If you are very good, I may let you see him through the crack of the door; but he is not for you. I have picked out someone else."